Central ND News

The Bismarck Forestry Division plans to hold a community recognition ceremony and tree planting event on Friday, May 2, at Custer Park in Bismarck. The event, which begins at 1 PM, is open to the public. The theme for the 2025 Arbor Day celebration is “Branch Out and Make a Difference.”

Each year, an Arbor Day tree is dedicated to a local individual who has significantly contributed to Bismarck’s urban forest. In 2025, this honor will go posthumously to Stan Churchill, recognized for his service on the Forestry Advisory Board and his commitment to tree services in the area. His contributions will continue to benefit the citizens of Bismarck.

The ceremony will also feature the presentation of Apple Seed Awards for the 2024 landscape beautification on public property, a Beautification Award for private property efforts, and recognition of sponsors from the 2024 Partners in Planting program. Bismarck is celebrating its 48th year as a Tree City USA.

Mayor Mike Schmitz is scheduled to attend the ceremony to read the Arbor Day Proclamation and deliver welcome remarks. Students from Dorothy Moses Grade School and St. Mary’s Grade School will make presentations for the event. The ceremonial tree planting will occur at the conclusion of the program, weather permitting.

Additionally, on April 29, a related event 'Plant a Tree with Scheels' will give the first 100 families a free evergreen seedling from 3 PM to 6 PM, celebrating Arbor Day.

For further information on Arbor Day, Bismarck’s urban forest, or the importance of trees, the public can visit the Forestry Division's section on the city's website or call 701-355-1700 and select option 3.